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Boundless Anatomy and Physiology
Physiology Textbooks Boundless Anatomy and Physiology
Physiology Textbooks
Physiology

Chapter 19

Lymphatic System

Book Version 29
By Boundless
Boundless Anatomy and Physiology
Physiology
by Boundless
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Section 1
Lymphatic System Structure and Function
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Structure of the Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system consists of lymphatic vessels and associated lymphoid organs.

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Functions of the Lymphatic System

The lymphatic system plays a prominent role in immune function, fatty acid absorption, and removal of interstitial fluid from tissues.

Section 2
Lymphatic Vessels
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Lymphatic Vessel Structure

The lymphatic structure is based on that of blood vessels.

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Distribution of Lymphatic Vessels

The lymphatic system comprises a network of conduits called lymphatic vessels that carry lymph unidirectionally towards the heart.

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Lymph Transport

Lymph circulates to the lymph node via afferent lymphatic vessels and drains into the lymph node in the subcapsular sinus.

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Lymphatic Capillaries

Lymph capillaries are tiny, thin-walled vessels, closed at one end and located in the spaces between cells throughout the body.

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Lymph Trunks and Ducts

The lymph trunks drain into the lymph ducts, which in turn return lymph to the blood by emptying into the respective subclavian veins.

Section 3
Lymph Cells and Tissues
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Lymphoid Cells

A lymphocyte is a type of white blood cell in the vertebrate immune system.

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Lymphoid Tissue

Lymphoid tissue consists of many organs that play a role in the production and maturation of lymphocytes in the immune response.

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Lymph Nodes

Lymph nodes are small oval-shaped balls of lymphatic tissue distributed widely throughout the body and linked by lymphatic vessels.

Section 4
Other Lymphoid Organs
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Thymus

The thymus is a specialized organ that "educates" T cells or T lymphocytes, which are part of the adaptive immune system.

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Spleen

The spleen, similar to a large lymph node, acts primarily as a blood filter in the mononuclear phagocyte system of the immune system.

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Tonsils

The tonsils are one of the immune system's first lines of defense against ingested or inhaled foreign pathogens.

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Lymphatic System
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